Christmas may be a season of comfort and joy, but health experts have warned of hidden dangers, ranging from the fire hazard posed by skin creams to the possibility of festive foods interacting with certain medications.
According to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), people using medical moisturisers, known as emollient creams, which are often used for eczema and other dry skin conditions, should stay away from sources of heat including candles and open flames as such creams can soak into fabrics and make them more flammable.
The agency also warned that traditional Christmas vegetables, including Brussels sprouts and broccoli, could be problematic for people who take the anticoagulant warfarin, because the high levels of vitamin K they contain could reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
“These foods should not be avoided completely – instead, try to eat consistent amounts so that your vitamin K levels remain stable,” the MHRA says.
However, some people may need to avoid festive feasts. Aged cheese and dark chocolate are among the foods that contain a substance called tyramine. Tyramine may interact with drugs called monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors, which are sometimes used to treat depression and Parkinson’s disease, causing a sudden increase in blood pressure.
According to Torbay and South Devon NHS Trust, other foods that should be avoided by people taking these medicines include staples of many Christmas tables such as smoked fish, beer, figs, gravy granules, pâté and cheese biscuits.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer, said: “The festive season is a time for coming together, sharing traditions and creating lasting memories. But as we fill our homes with light, warmth and happiness, it’s important we don’t forget safety – especially around medicines and medical products.”
This also includes taking care during festivals. As the MHRA notes, some medicines can cause drowsiness, dizziness or poor coordination with alcohol.
“Even if you’re not driving a car, you should still use caution when using a mobility scooter or powered wheelchair,” the agency said. “These are medical devices, and alcohol or medications that impair judgment may make their use unsafe.”
The MHRA also says that those hoping to lose weight should use caution when purchasing weight loss drugs online, noting that they should only be purchased with a doctor’s prescription and from legitimate sites.
“Products sold through unregulated websites or social media channels may be counterfeit, contaminated, mislabeled or contain potent ingredients not listed on the packaging,” the MHRA said. “Taking these medications can cause serious side effects, including cardiovascular problems, psychological effects, or dangerously low blood sugar.”
At the time of seasonal cough and cold, the MHRA has also highlighted the importance of following dosage instructions and not taking multiple products with the same active ingredients, such as paracetamol.
Professor Victoria Tzortzio-Brown, president of the Royal College of GPs, welcomed the MHRA’s advice. He said it was a good idea for patients to refresh their understanding of the possible side effects of the medicine by looking at the patient information leaflet, checking the NHS website or speaking to a pharmacist. Health advice can also be obtained through NHS 111 services and a GP.
“The MHRA is right to highlight the risks of buying cheap ‘medical’ or cosmetic Christmas gifts online, especially from unregulated sellers,” Tzortzio-Brown said. “If an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is.”
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